Tile Flooring in New Build Homes: What You Need to Know

When you’re building a new home, tile flooring, a durable, water-resistant surface commonly used in kitchens, bathrooms, and entryways. Also known as ceramic or porcelain tile, it’s one of the most popular choices for new builds because it lasts decades with little upkeep. But just because it’s popular doesn’t mean it’s right for every room—or every budget. Many homeowners assume tile is a safe, low-cost upgrade, only to find out later that installation errors, poor subfloor prep, or wrong tile type led to cracks, lifting, or moisture issues.

Tile flooring in a new build, a recently constructed home built from the ground up with modern materials and codes. Also known as new construction home, it isn’t just about picking a color. It’s tied to the home’s structure, drying time, and builder’s timeline. New builds settle over the first 6–12 months. If tile is installed too early, shifting foundations can cause grout to crack or tiles to pop loose. That’s why experts recommend waiting until after the plaster and framing have fully dried—often six months after move-in. And while tile is great for high-moisture areas like bathrooms, putting it in every room? That’s where costs balloon. You’ll pay more for labor, underlayment, and heating systems if you want radiant heat under tile. Plus, tile feels cold underfoot in winter unless paired with proper insulation.

Another thing most people miss: new build components, the standard features included by the builder before upgrades. Also known as builder-grade finishes, they often include basic vinyl or laminate flooring in living areas, not tile. Upgrading to tile usually means paying extra—sometimes hundreds per room. And if you’re buying off-plan, you might not even get to pick the tile until late in the process. That’s risky. Tile patterns and shades vary by batch. If you wait, you might end up with something that doesn’t match your cabinets, countertops, or wall paint.

Don’t forget the subfloor. Tile needs a solid, flat base. In new builds, builders sometimes use cheaper OSB or plywood that can warp if moisture gets in. A good installer will add a cement board or moisture barrier before laying tile. But not all do. Ask for proof of underlayment specs before signing off. And if you’re planning to install heated floors later, tile is one of the few materials that conducts heat well—but only if installed correctly.

Tile flooring isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s one of the most reliable if done right. It doesn’t warp like wood, doesn’t stain like carpet, and doesn’t crack like cheap vinyl. But it needs planning. Know your room. Know your builder’s timeline. Know what’s included in your package. And don’t rush it just because the walls are up. The best new builds aren’t the ones finished fastest—they’re the ones built to last.

Below, you’ll find real advice from homeowners and contractors who’ve been through it—what worked, what blew up, and what you should never skip when choosing tile for your new home.